A controller outputs, to a transport vehicle, a forward movement command for moving in the forward direction along a transport path toward a destination, and a reverse movement command for moving in a reverse direction along the transport path toward the destination. When a target task occurs, the controller determines a transport vehicle to execute the target task among a plurality of transport vehicles, while also including, as a candidate, a transport vehicle located on a downstream side of the transport path relative to the destination at a timing when the target task occurs.
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2. The transportation facility according to claim 1, wherein when determining the transport vehicle to execute the target task among the plurality of transport vehicles, the controller also includes, as one of the candidates, a transport vehicle that is located on an upstream side of the transport path relative to the destination at the timing when the target task occurs, and which is expected to stop at the downstream side relative to the destination, even after starting a deceleration from the timing when the target task occurs.
This invention relates to automated transportation systems, specifically optimizing task assignment in a network of transport vehicles. The problem addressed is efficiently selecting a transport vehicle to execute a target task while minimizing delays and maximizing resource utilization. The system includes a controller that manages multiple transport vehicles along a transport path, each capable of performing tasks such as moving items between locations. The controller evaluates candidate vehicles based on their position, speed, and expected movement to determine the most suitable one for a given task. A key aspect of the invention is the controller's ability to consider vehicles located upstream of the task's destination, even if they are expected to stop downstream of the destination after decelerating from the task's occurrence. This ensures that vehicles already in motion toward the destination are prioritized, reducing idle time and improving efficiency. The controller assesses each vehicle's trajectory, including deceleration patterns, to predict whether it will pass the destination or stop nearby, allowing for dynamic task assignment. This approach optimizes vehicle utilization by leveraging ongoing movements rather than waiting for idle vehicles, enhancing overall system throughput. The invention is particularly useful in automated warehouses, manufacturing lines, or other environments where precise task coordination is critical.
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June 12, 2023
April 9, 2024
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